U.S. patent application number 11/693754 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-02 for tissue moving surgical device.
This patent application is currently assigned to ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.. Invention is credited to David Stefanchik.
Application Number | 20080243164 11/693754 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39795671 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080243164 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stefanchik; David |
October 2, 2008 |
Tissue Moving Surgical Device
Abstract
Devices and methods for moving tissue and/or moving the devices
relative to the tissue during a surgical procedure are disclosed.
The devices and methods disclosed herein can be used in
conventional, open surgical procedures, they are particularly
useful in minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as
laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures. In one aspect, the movement
or tissue and/or the device is effected by moving a fabric
associated with the device and in contact with tissue.
Inventors: |
Stefanchik; David; (Morrow,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NUTTER MCCLENNEN & FISH LLP
WORLD TRADE CENTER WEST, 155 SEAPORT BOULEVARD
BOSTON
MA
02210-2604
US
|
Assignee: |
ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.
Cincinnati
OH
|
Family ID: |
39795671 |
Appl. No.: |
11/693754 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/190 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/32 20130101;
A61B 2017/320044 20130101; A61B 2017/320056 20130101; A61B
2017/00858 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/190 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/00 20060101
A61B017/00 |
Claims
1. A surgical tissue moving device, comprising: a substantially
rigid insertion body having an outer surface and an opening formed
in a distal portion thereof, and a lumen within the body in
communication with the opening; a porous fabric extending over at
least a portion of the outer surface of the insertion body and into
the lumen, the fabric having an outer, tissue contacting surface
that is selectively movable relative to the body; and an actuator
mechanism effective to selectively move the fabric relative to the
insertion body such that the movement of the fabric exerts a tissue
moving force on tissue with which the fabric is in contact.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the insertion body has a tapered
distal end.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the porous fabric extends through
the opening in the insertion body and is everted over the outer
surface thereof to attach to the actuator mechanism.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein movement of the actuator
mechanism in the proximal direction effects movement of the fabric
extending over the outer surface of the insertion body in the
proximal direction.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the device is a dissector
tool.
6. The device of claim 3, wherein movement of the actuator
mechanism in the distal direction relative to the insertion body
effects movement of the fabric extending over the outer surface of
the insertion body in the proximal direction.
7. The device of claim 4, wherein the actuator mechanism is formed
external to the device and is movable with respect to the insertion
body.
8. The device of claim 6, wherein the actuator mechanism is an
annular ring.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator mechanism is a
member insertable within the lumen in the insertion body and
movable with respect thereto.
10. The device of claim 9, wherein the actuator mechanism is an
elongate member having a fabric engaging material formed on at
least a portion of a distal end thereof.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the fabric engaging material
comprises bristles oriented distally at an acute angle with respect
to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein movement of the elongate member
in the distal direction effects movement of the fabric extending
over the outer surface of the insertion body in the proximal
direction.
13. The device of claim 10, wherein the fabric engaging material
comprises bristles oriented proximally at an acute angle with
respect to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein movement of the elongate member
in the proximal direction effects movement of the fabric extending
over the outer surface of the insertion body in the distal
direction.
15. The device of claim 1, wherein the insertion body is
wedge-shaped.
16. The device of claim 1, wherein the insertion body is in the
shape of a truncated cone.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the fabric is a mesh
material.
18. A method for moving tissue relative to a surgical tool,
comprising: providing a tissue moving device having an insertion
body with a fabric material positioned over at least a portion of
an outer surface of the insertion body; contacting tissue to be
moved with the porous fabric of the tool; actuating the porous
fabric such that the fabric moves relative to the insertion body
while causing the tissue in contact with the porous fabric to move
with the porous fabric.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the tissue moving device is
placed adjacent an interface of two tissue layers and the porous
fabric is actuated to dissect the tissue layers.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the tissue moving device is
placed adjacent to a tissue wall and the porous fabric is actuated
to create a full thickness opening through the tissue wall.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the opening is a surgically
created opening formed in digestive tract tissue.
22. The method of claim 18, wherein the device is delivered to a
surgical site by an endoscope.
23. The method of claim 18, further comprising viewing the tissue
separation with a visualization device positioned within the
insertion body.
24. A method for processing the instrument of claim 1 for surgery,
comprising: a) obtaining the tissue moving device of claim 1; b)
sterilizing the device; and c) storing the device in a sterile
container.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to surgical devices useful for
moving tissue and/or effecting movement of device relative to
tissue.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many surgical procedures require the movement or dissection
of tissue. Space constraints as well as the relative remoteness of
a distal end of a surgical tool from the surgeon can make it
difficult to move tissue. In other surgical procedures,
particularly in laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, movement of
the surgical device can be challenging because it is located in a
relatively constrained space that is remote from the surgeon.
Accordingly, there is a need for devices that conveniently and
effectively enable the movement of tissue and/or the movement of
surgical tools relative to tissue.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention generally provides devices and methods
for moving tissue and/or moving the devices relative to the tissue
during a surgical procedure. While the devices and methods
disclosed herein can be used in conventional, open surgical
procedures, they are particularly useful in minimally invasive
surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and endoscopic
procedures.
[0004] In one aspect, a surgical tissue moving device comprises a
substantially rigid insertion body having an outer surface and an
opening formed in a distal portion thereof. The device can include
a lumen formed within the body and in communication with the
opening. A porous fabric can extend over at least a portion of the
outer surface of the insertion body and into the lumen. The fabric
can have an outer, tissue contacting surface that is selectively
movable relative to the body. The device may also include an
integrated or separate actuator mechanism effective to selectively
move the fabric relative to the insertion body such that the
movement of the fabric exerts a tissue moving force on tissue with
which the fabric is in contact. The device can have a variety of
shapes, but it is generally elongate having a tapered wedge-like or
cone-like distal end.
[0005] A method for moving tissue relative to a surgical tool is
also disclosed. Such a method may comprise providing a tissue
moving device having an insertion body and a porous fabric
positioned over at least a portion of an outer surface of the
insertion body. The device is manipulated such that tissue is
contacted with the fabric and the fabric is actuated such that the
fabric moves relative to the insertion body while causing the
tissue in contact with the porous fabric to move with the porous
fabric. This enable the tissue in contact with the fabric to be
moved relative to the tool. As such, the device can be used in
surgery to create and/or expand an opening in tissue, or to dissect
tissue layers. The device can be delivered to the surgical site
using a number of techniques, including by the use of an
endoscope.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The invention will be more fully understood from the
following detailed description taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0007] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a distal end of a tissue
moving device according to one aspect of the invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a sectional view, at lines 2-2 of the device of
FIG. 1 with an actuator in a neutral position;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the device of FIG. 2 with the
actuator in a retracted position;
[0010] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a
tissue moving device according to the invention in a first
position;
[0011] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the device of FIG. 4 in a
second position;
[0012] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the device of FIG. 4 at lines
6-6;
[0013] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of a
tissue moving device according to the invention;
[0014] FIG. 7A is an isometric view of an actuator device useful
with the tissue moving device of FIG. 7;
[0015] FIG. 7B is an isometric view of an alternative actuator
device useful with the tissue moving device of FIG. 7
[0016] FIG. 8 is a view of a an additional embodiment of a tissue
moving device according to the invention;
[0017] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a tissue moving device of the
type shown in FIG. 7 deployed through an endoscope;
[0018] FIG. 10 is a side sectional view of a tissue moving system
according to the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 11 is a side sectional view of a tissue moving system
of FIG. 10 in use in a first position adjacent tissue to be
moved;
[0020] FIG. 12 is a side sectional view of the system of FIG. 10 in
a second position adjacent tissue to be moved;
[0021] FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a tissue dissector of the
type shown in FIG. 4 in use in a first position adjacent tissue
layers to be dissected; and
[0022] FIG. 14 is a schematic view of a tissue dissector of FIG. 13
in use in a second position between tissue layers being
dissected.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to
provide an overall understanding of the principles of the
structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and
methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments
are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods
specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope
of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The
features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary
embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments.
Such modifications and variations are intended to be included
within the scope of the present invention.
[0024] The present invention generally provides devices and methods
for moving tissue and/or moving the devices relative to the tissue
during a surgical procedure. While the devices and methods
disclosed herein can be used in conventional, open surgical
procedures, they are particularly useful in minimally invasive
surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and endoscopic
procedures. The principles described herein can be applicable to
the particular types of tools described herein, and to a variety of
other surgical tools having similar functions. In addition, the
tools can be used alone in a surgical procedure, or they can be
used in conjunction with other devices, such as endoscopes, that
facilitate minimally invasive surgical procedures.
[0025] Although the invention is described herein with reference to
surgical tools such as obturators and dissectors, one skilled in
the art will appreciate that the invention can be adapted to a
variety of other surgical tools having similar functions. The term
"tissue" is used herein in its broad sense and includes any tissue
structure within the body, including organs.
[0026] A person skilled in the art will also appreciate that the
present invention has application in conventional open surgical and
minimally invasive instrumentation as well application in
robotic-assisted surgery.
[0027] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate one embodiment of a tissue moving
device 10 according to the present invention. The device 10 is a
generally elongated member having a substantially rigid body 12
with an outer surface 14 and an opening 16 formed in a distal
portion 18 thereof. The opening 16 communicates with a lumen 20
that extends through all or a portion of the body. A fabric
material 22 having a tissue contacting outer surface 24 extends
over at least a portion of the outer surface 14 of body 12 in such
a way that the fabric is configured to be selectively movable
relative to the body. The device further includes an actuator
mechanism 26 that facilitates the selective movement of the fabric
material.
[0028] The body 12 may have a variety of shapes that make it useful
to access tissue and/or organs within the body. Although only a
distal portion of the device 10 is shown in FIGS. 1-3, it is
understood that the shaft 28 extending proximally from the distal
tip 18 may be of any length that is able to render the device
suitable for a variety of surgical procedures, including open,
laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures. The distal tip 18 can have
a tapered shape, such as that of a wedge, a cone, or a truncated
cone that renders it able to be placed at a narrow opening, a
tissue interface, or a junction between tissue or organ structures,
so as to act in the manner of a wedge. Alternatively, the device
can have a generally cylindrical shape. The dimensions of the
device 10, particularly its distal tip, will vary depending upon
the intended surgical technique and application.
[0029] The opening 16 may be formed in a distal facing end of the
distal tip 18 of the device (as shown in FIGS. 1-3) or it may be
formed adjacent to or in the vicinity of the distal facing end. In
any event, the opening 16 should be in communication with the lumen
20 that extends at least partially within the body 12. The body 12
may also have one or more side openings 30 formed in its outer
surface 14 to accommodate the fabric material 22 (as explained
below).
[0030] The fabric material 22 can be virtually any material that is
biocompatible, having properties that enables an outer surface 24
of the fabric to contact tissue in such a way that it is able to
gain a sufficient traction to enable the contacted tissue and/or
the device to move as a result of movement of the fabric. In one
embodiment, the fabric material is a porous material such as a mesh
material, which can be woven or non-woven. The material from which
the mesh is formed can include a variety or synthetic and
non-synthetic materials. Examples of synthetic materials include
polymers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester,
polytetrafluoroethylene, and nylon. Examples of non-synthetic mesh
materials include, but are not limited to silk, cotton, and
stainless steel.
[0031] Suitable mesh materials can have a number of useful
properties. One particularly useful property of the material is
that it possess a high coefficient of friction such that it should
be able to resist sliding relative to tissue that it contacts. That
is, the movement of a low friction mesh material in contact with
tissue should result in the tissue moving as a result of the fabric
moving.
[0032] In one example, the mesh material can be made from a number
of cords of fiber that are spaced apart from each other and
connected at various points of intersection. Each cord can be
formed from a plurality of fine denier filaments that are bundled
together, such as by braiding, twisting or weaving. Suitable mesh
materials also tend to have a relatively high porosity as a result
of having a high density of holes per square inch. For example, the
mesh can have in the range of about 5 to 300 holes per square inch,
or preferably, in the range of about 10 to 200 holes per square
inch, or more preferably, in the range of about 15 to 30 holes per
square inch. Further, the size of the holes in the mesh can vary,
but they are typically in the range of about 0.002 to 0.020
inch.
[0033] One example of a suitable mesh material is a 4 mm 100 dtex,
16 needle DYNEEMA tube available from Biomedical Structures LLC of
Warwick, R.I.
[0034] The fabric material can be mounted to the surface of the
rigid body 12 in a number of ways, as long as it is able to be
selectively moved relative to the body 12. In one embodiment, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the mesh is formed over the outer surface
14 of the body 12 and it extends through opening 16 into lumen 20
and out of a side opening 30. In one aspect the fabric may extend
over a part of the surface of the body, such as only a top surface.
More typically, however, the fabric 22 extends over virtually the
entire outer surface 14 of the body 12 as illustrated.
[0035] The connection of the fabric 22 to the body 12 can be
accomplished in a variety of ways to enable it to encompass
virtually the entire outer surface 14 of the body. In one
embodiment, the fabric 22 can be in the form of a tube that is
placed within the lumen 20 and then everted such that it extends
from within the lumen, out of opening 16 and in through side
openings 30 such that the ends of the fabric are joined to each
other and/or to an actuator mechanism. The resulting configuration
is as shown in FIGS. 1-3. With this type of construction, the
fabric resembles a type of tread on the outer surface of the body,
enabling it to move relative to the outer surface of the body as
will be described below.
[0036] The actuation mechanism 26 can be of virtually any design
that enables the fabric to be moved selectively relative to the
outer surface of the body. In one embodiment, illustrated in FIGS.
1-3, the actuation mechanism 26 may be in the form of an annular
ring assembly 32 attached to an outer segment 22a of the fabric.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that in the form of what is
essentially a tread or continuous loop, the fabric will at any
given state of movement have an outer segment 22a disposed adjacent
to the outer surface 14 of body 12, which is able to engage tissue,
and an inner segment 22b, which is disposed within the lumen
20.
[0037] The ring assembly 32 can have a sliding ring component 34
and a locking ring component 36. As shown in FIG. 2, the locking
ring component 36 is in the open position such that movement of the
sliding ring component 34 will not effect movement of the fabric
22. However, when in the locked position, as shown in FIG. 3, the
locking ring component 36 secures the fabric to the slidable
sliding ring component 34 such that movement of the ring assembly
32 will cause a corresponding movement of the fabric. As
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the inner segment 22b of the fabric
can include markings 38 that are effective to detect motion of the
fabric. In the position shown in FIG. 2, which can be called a
neutral position, the markings 38 are disposed within lumen 20.
When the ring assembly 32 is moved proximally, to the actuated
position shown in FIG. 3, a corresponding proximal movement of the
fabric 22 along the outer surface 14 of the body takes place. This
movement is evidenced by the fact that markings 38 are positioned
adjacent the outer surface of the body 12 and FIG. 3.
[0038] One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of
actuation mechanisms, other than the ring assembly 32, may be used.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that the actuation mechanism
can be disposed internal to the device, as opposed to external to
the device, as shown in FIGS. 1-3. The actuation mechanism can also
be an element that is separate from the device rather than coupled
to the device as illustrated. One skilled in the art will further
appreciate that the actuator mechanism can effect movement of the
fabric over the outer surface of the body in either the proximal or
the distal direction.
[0039] As noted above, FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a distal portion of a
device useful in a variety of surgical procedures to move tissue
relative to the device and/or to assist in moving the device
relative to adjacent tissue. The length and width or diameter of
the shaft 28 will generally determine the type of surgery for which
the device is best suited. For example, a longer and thinner shaft
would typically be present on a device used in minimally invasive
surgery while a shorter shaft would be more common for a device
intended for open surgery.
[0040] A variety of alternative device designs having the same or a
similar intended function are described below. Since many of the
elements of the devices described below are common to those
described above, similar reference numerals will be used. However,
a numerical prefix will be used to distinguish features of
different embodiments. For example, elements of FIGS. 4-6 will be
preceded by the prefix "1," the elements of FIGS. 7-8 will be
preceded by the prefix "2," and the elements of FIGS. 9-12 will be
preceded by the prefix "3." One skilled in the art will appreciate
that the structure and function of similarly referenced elements
will be substantially the same as described above with respect
FIGS. 1-3 except as otherwise noted.
[0041] FIGS. 4-6 illustrate another embodiment of another tissue
moving device 110 according to the present invention, which also
can act as an obturator or dissector that can be used in surgical
procedures. FIGS. 4-6 represent a device that can be used in open
surgical procedures. As illustrated, device 110 is in the form of a
substantially rigid body 112 having an outer surface 114. An
opening 116 is formed in a distal portion 118 of the body and the
opening communicates with a lumen 120 (FIG. 6) that is formed
within all or a part of the rigid body. A proximal portion 112a of
the rigid body may include a structure, such as handle 140 that
enables the device to be grasped and manipulated. Further, an
actuation mechanism 126 having flange components 142a, 142b may be
slidably disposed on the rigid body 112 as shown in FIGS. 4 and
5.
[0042] Like the device described in FIGS. 1-3, the fabric material
122 of the device of FIGS. 4-6 can be formed on just one portion,
e.g., a top portion, of the outer surface 114, or it can envelope
substantially the entire outer surface 114 of the rigid body 112.
In one embodiment, the fabric material is in a substantially
tube-like configuration within the lumen 120 (as shown in FIG. 6)
and it extends out of the opening 116 around the outer surface 114
of the rigid body, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, where it attaches to
a portion of the actuator mechanism 126. Accordingly, the fabric
122 has an outer surface 124a and an inner surface 124b. The distal
tip 118 of body 112 can be wedge-shaped to facilitate placement of
the device in small openings or at tissue or organ junctures or
interfaces.
[0043] The principles of operation of the device 110 are similar to
those of the device 10. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the actuation
mechanism 126 is in an initial position in which it is disposed
towards the distal end of rigid body 112. FIG. 5 illustrates a
second position in which the actuator mechanism 126 is retracted
proximally. Upon proximal retraction of the actuator mechanism, the
fabric 122 on the outer surface 114 of the rigid body 112 moves
relative to the rigid body. Thus, when the distal end 118 of device
110 is placed in contact with tissue, such that the tissue is in
contact with the outer surface 124 of fabric 122, proximal
retraction of the actuator mechanism will cause the fabric to move
proximally while at the same time moving the tissue relative to the
rigid body as well. Thus, movement of the tissue and/or the rigid
body can be effected.
[0044] Although the device 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 is of a
design that renders it particularly useful for open surgery, it can
be adapted for use in other types of surgery such as minimally
invasive surgery.
[0045] FIGS. 7-8 illustrate another embodiment of a tissue moving
device 210 that is particularly useful in minimally invasive
procedures, such as for use with an endoscope.
[0046] The device 210 includes an elongated shaft 228 having an end
effector 244 in the form of body 212 at a distal end 218 thereof.
The end effector 244 can have an opening 216 at a distal end
thereof that communicates with the lumen (not shown) that extends
through all or part of the end effector. One skilled in the art
will appreciate that the lumen can extend around or through the
portion of the shaft that is disposed within the end effector.
However, it typically extends within the shaft 228 and one or more
side openings (not shown) may be formed in the side wall of the
shaft in communication with the lumen.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 7, a fabric material 222 may extend over at
least a portion of the outer surface 214 of the end effector 244.
In one embodiment, the fabric 222 may be everted, as described
above with respect to FIGS. 1-3, to extend around substantially the
entire outer surface of the end effector. In any event, the fabric
material 222 should be associated with the end effector 244 in such
a way that it is able to selectively move relative to an outer
surface 214 of the end effector 244. As described above with
respect to FIGS. 1-6, when the fabric is placed in contact with the
tissue or an organ, movement of the fabric relative to the outer
surface of the end effector will effect relative movement of the
tissue or organ and/or the device 210.
[0048] Movement of the fabric material 222 can be effected by an
actuator mechanism of the type described above with respect to
FIGS. 1-6 that is associated with the device 210. Alternatively, a
separate actuator mechanism may be utilized. For example, the
actuator mechanism may be in the form of an actuator member 246 of
the type illustrated in FIG. 7A. As shown, actuator member 246 is
an elongate member having a proximal shaft 248 and a distal
actuator structure 250 that is fabric-engaging. The actuator member
246 may be inserted within the lumen 220 to selectively contact and
move the fabric 222. In one example, the actuator structure 250 can
be in the form of a brush member having bristles 252 that are
oriented at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis
254 of actuator member 246. For example, the bristles can be
distally oriented or proximally oriented.
[0049] In one embodiment, when the bristles are distally oriented,
distal movement of the actuator member 246 within the lumen will
enable the bristles 252 to contact an inner segment 222b of the
fabric 222 and effect proximal movement of the fabric 222 along the
outer surface 214 of the device 210 by effectively pulling the
fabric 222 proximally along an outer surface of the body 212,
around the proximal end of body 212, and back into the lumen 220.
Movement of an actuator member 246 with distally oriented bristles
in a proximal direction will have no effect on the movement of the
fabric. Alternatively, the actuator member 246 can be constructed
to have proximally oriented bristles 252. With such a design distal
movement of the actuator member 246 within the lumen 220 and in
contact with an inner segment 222b of the fabric will have no
effect on the movement of the fabric. However, proximal movement of
the actuator member 246 while the bristles 252 are in contact with
an inner segment of the fabric 222b will effect distal movement of
the fabric 222 along the outer surface 214 of device 210.
[0050] FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative actuator mechanism 246',
which can be used in place of the bristle brush actuator 246 shown
in FIG. 7A. As illustrated, actuator 246' is in the form of an
elongate member 248' having at a distal end thereof two joined
metal half cylinders 245a, 245b. The outer surface of each half
cylinder includes teeth 247 while the surfaces where the two half
cylinders join includes cam ramps 249. When one half cylinder is
pushed distally relative to the other half cylinder, it ramps the
other half cylinder to effectively increase the overall diameter of
actuator 246' so the teeth can grip the fabric. On the return
stroke the cams allow the cylinder halves to collapse the diameter
of actuator 246' to ratchet across the fabric without moving the
fabric to prepare for the next cycle of fabric movement.
[0051] FIG. 8 illustrates a variation of the tissue moving device
shown in FIG. 7. The tissue moving device 210', illustrated in FIG.
8, is likewise useful in minimally invasive procedures, such as for
use with an endoscope, and it also permits visualization of tissue.
Device 210' includes an end effector 244' in the form of a body
212' having a tapered distal end. As shown in FIG. 8, a fabric
material 222 may extend over at least a portion of the outer
surface 214' of the end effector 244'. In one embodiment, the
fabric 222 may be everted, as described above with respect to FIGS.
1-3, to extend around substantially the entire outer surface of the
end effector. In any event, the fabric material 222 should be
associated with the end effector 244' in such a way that it is able
to selectively move relative to an outer surface 214' of the end
effector 244'. Like the device described above with respect to FIG.
7, when the fabric is placed in contact with the tissue or an
organ, movement of the fabric relative to the outer surface of the
end effector will effect relative movement of the tissue or organ
and/or the device 210'. An actuator 248' with bristles 252 of the
type described above with respect to FIG. 7A can be used to
selectively move the fabric relative to the outer surface 214'. A
locking cap 213 can be used to lock the position of the fabric. As
shown in FIG. 8, the locking cap 213 cooperates with a smooth,
enlarged feature 217a formed at a distal end of a shaft 217 that
extends within the body 212'. In one embodiment, the shaft 217
includes a lumen formed therein through which the shaft of the
actuator 248' may extend. Shaft 248' also includes a lumen 219
formed therein that is sized and configured to receive another
instrument 215 such as a guidewire, a needle, and/or a miniaturized
visualization device such as a camera.
[0052] This embodiment is useful in that the miniaturized
visualization device can be an angioscope (e.g., having an outer
diameter of about 0.035 inch) that enables a user can to view
separation of tissues. This may be useful when using the device to
gain access through an organ wall so that the user knows when
penetration has occurred and can safely stop the actuation of the
device. The lumen 219 can also serve as a space through which to
insert a guidewire (not shown), which will act as a placeholder in
the opening so that other devices (e.g., dilators, balloons,
cannulas) can subsequently be directed to the newly formed space
after the device has been withdrawn.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 9, the device 210 can be used in minimally
invasive surgical procedures. For example, the device 210 can be
delivered to a surgical site through a working channel 256 of an
endoscope 258 in a manner known to those skilled in the art. In
another example, the device 210, or a device of a similar
construction with a cylindrical or cone-like distal tip, can be
delivered through a blood vessel, such as an artery or a vein.
[0054] FIGS. 10-14 illustrate the use of devices according to the
present invention in various surgical applications.
[0055] FIGS. 10-12 illustrate the use of a device 310 in an
endoscopic procedure involving a system 300 that includes an
endoscope 358 and an overtube 315 associated with the endoscope and
through which the device 310 is delivered to a surgical site.
Device 310 includes an end effector 344 that can be extended beyond
the distal end 315 of overtube 314. Device 310 is in the form of a
substantially rigid body 312 having an outer surface 314 and an
opening 316 formed in a distal portion 318 thereof. The opening 316
communicates with a lumen 320 formed within the rigid body and
extending entirely or partially therein. One or more side openings
330 may extend through the outer surface 314 to communicate with
lumen 320. As described above with respect to FIGS. 1-9, a fabric
material 322 is disposed at least partially within the lumen and
extends over at least a portion of the outer surface 314 of body
312. The fabric is attached to an actuator mechanism 326 which can
be associated with the device and movable with respect to the outer
surface 314 to effect selective movement of the attached fabric 322
relative to outer surface 314, or it can be a separate element. In
one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the actuator mechanism 326 may
be in the form of a ring or a similar device having a cable 360
attached to one portion, e.g., a proximal portion, of the actuator
mechanism 326. The cable can extend through the entire system 300,
including the overtube 315, to a proximal end of the system 300
(not shown) such that a user can effect movement of the actuator
mechanism and thus the fabric by applying a force, such as tension,
to the cable.
[0056] In one embodiment, the fabric and the actuator mechanism can
be configured such that proximal movement of the actuator mechanism
results in proximal movement of the fabric 322 relative to the
outer surface 314. Alternatively, and as described above, the
system can be configured such that distal movement of the actuator
results in movement of the fabric. One skilled in the art will
appreciate that more than one actuator can be used and that such
multiple actuators can work in concert with each other. For
example, one actuator can effectively pull the fabric while another
one can effectively push the fabric. One skilled in the art will
further appreciate that the actuation mechanism can be biased to
one position, such as a forward position, such that following any
proximal retraction of the actuator mechanism to effect movement of
the fabric, the actuation mechanism will return to its starting
position upon the release of tension from cable 360. One skilled in
the art will appreciate that the return of the actuation mechanism
can be effected manually and/or with the assistance of a biasing
mechanism such as a spring.
[0057] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the use of devise 310 in an
endoscopic surgical procedure in which it is desired to increase
the size of an incision in tissue and/or to create such an opening
(e.g., a full thickness opening) through which a surgical device
can be passed to effect a surgical procedure. The tissue, for
example can be the stomach wall, penetration of which is necessary
in an endoscopic transgastric surgical procedure.
[0058] As illustrated, the end effector 344 is extended beyond a
distal and of an over tube 315 such that the distal tip 318 of
device 310 adjacent to tissue 70. In an initial position, shown in
FIG. 11, a separate surgical device, such as an endoscopic
perforator (not shown) is delivered through the endoscope, the
working channel, and the device 310 to a position adjacent to
tissue 70. A small opening 80 is then made in tissue 70 and the
distal tip 318 of device 310 is placed adjacent to the opening
80.
[0059] In this position the fabric 322 is in contact with a portion
of the tissue 70 adjacent opening 80. Further, the actuator 326 is
in a forward position, for example in the vicinity of a distal and
of the over tube. Upon a proximal movement of the actuator
mechanism 326, for example by applying tension to cable 360, the
actuator is retracted as shown in FIG. 12. At the same time, the
fabric 322 on the outer surface 314 of rigid body 312 likewise
moves proximally with respect to the outer surface 314. This
motion, in combination with the wedge-like shape of the end
effector 344, causes the size of the opening 70 to increase and it
also allows at least a portion of the end effector to move with
respect to the tissue such that it extends through the opening 80
and beyond the tissue 70 as shown in FIG. 12.
[0060] Thereafter, surgical devices can be delivered through the
system 300 to effect a surgical procedure. Alternatively, the
opening can be maintained and/or increased by the use of other
devices (not shown) and all or part of the system 300 can be
removed.
[0061] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate the use of device 110 in a
surgical procedure. For purposes of illustration only, the use of
device 110 is described with respect to a cholecystectomy and this
procedure can be conducted through a conventional open surgical
procedure or through a minimally invasive procedure.
[0062] As illustrated, the distal tip 118 of device 110 is
initially positioned adjacent to a tissue juncture that exists
between the gall bladder 84 and the liver 86. With the actuator in
the initial, forward position as shown in FIG. 13 a portion of the
distal tip 118 can be wedged into the appropriate position. Upon
proximal retraction of the actuator mechanism 126, as shown in FIG.
14, the fabric 122 on outer surface 114 of body 112 moves
proximally relative to the outer surface 114. This action, combined
with the wedge-like shape of the distal tip 118, allows the device
110 to be wedged into the tissue juncture between the gall bladder
84 and the liver 86 to separate these two organs and to facilitate
removal of the gall bladder. One skilled in the art will appreciate
that such a procedure may require more than one cycle of fabric
movement.
[0063] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices
described herein are also amenable to use in a variety of other
surgical procedures. For example, the device can be configured for
delivery through the vascular system, e.g., through an artery or a
vein, to treat a condition of the artery or vein or to access
another site in the body where treatment is necessary. As such, the
device can be used to remove plaque from an artery or to assist in
the removal of plaque, or to perform or assist in the performance
of a cardiac procedure. It is further understood that the methods
and devices disclosed herein are applicable to use of the device in
performing a surgical procedure, as well as to deliver to a
surgical site a device or another agent, e.g., a drug.
[0064] The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed
of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple
times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for
reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any
combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by
cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent
reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any
number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be
selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning
and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be
reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility,
or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a
device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly,
cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and
the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the
present application.
[0065] Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed
before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if
necessary cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one
sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and
sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and
instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can
penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or
high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the
instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then
be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the
instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility. One
skilled in the art will appreciate that the device can be
sterilized by a variety of other known techniques, including beta
or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, and steam.
[0066] One skilled in the art will further appreciate features and
advantages of the invention based on the above-described
embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited by
what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated
by the appended claims. All publications and references cited
herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
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